Datathon: Innovative solutions for a data-driven energy transition

Application for the datathon: Applications are now closed.

Languages: The datathon will only be held in English. Read the call in English, French, Spanish and Russian.

Background

EITI data represents a resource and an opportunity for data-driven solutions to tackle the energy transition, a key climate change issue. However, the potential of this data remains untapped. Partnered with the Open Knowledge Foundation (OKF) and Thibi, this datathon provided innovative solutions and tools to support a transparent energy transition. Funding for the datathon was made possible by USAID.

The datathon was structured as a design challenge: Each participant was given a dataset, with the focus on producing a solution that matched one of the four scenarios. Each scenario was written to match the needs of EITI stakeholders, allowing applicants to work on prototypes that could make a real impact in the field of energy transition. Our team was available to match skills for applicants who were missing team members to work on their prototype. Additionally, mentors were available before the final event to share their expertise on the scenarios, the data and/or technical challenges. 

The two-day event was from 10-11 September 2022. Participating teams were selected through an open call for proposals and engaged in using data to find an innovative solution for one of four energy transition scenarios. Prizes were awarded to the team who came up with the best tool during the event.

Timeline and deadlines 

• Opening date: 6 July 2022
• Closing date: 7 August 2022 
• Q&A Sessions 
  • Asia: 19 July at 5:00 PM UTC+8 
  • Europe and Africa: 19 July at 5:00 PM CEST 
  • Americas: 20 July at 11:00 AM UTC-4 
• Proposal selection announcement: 15 August 2022
• Team assembling: 8-19 August 2022
• Mentoring phase: 22 August to 9 September 2022
• 2-day event: prototype and final pitch: 10-11 September 2022
• Final results: 14 September 2022

The scenarios

• Scenario 1: Helping officials decide how to invest government revenues to support long-term development plans in the context of the energy transition.
• Scenario 2: Helping empower citizens to give their voice in the debate around energy transition.
• Scenario 3: Helping improve how local populations engage with social spending data to ensure sustainable investments in their communities.
• Scenario 4: Supporting government officials to understand company disclosures in a context of volatility and uncertainty.